Blog Auto Gova

Tires are one of the most important parts of your car. As you already know, they should be changed from time to time, sometimes because of wear and tear and sometimes because of the season. However, it is not possible to take into account the announcement made by the tire manufacturers regarding the10% price increase starting this April. So now you have to pay more for your tires, but not necessarily. Here are some tips to help you always pay less for your tires.

Buy your tires online

In recent years, the Internet has become a true center of commerce. Indeed, all kinds of things are sold there and the brands even have their own sales site. And in the specific case of the tire industry, a Google study states that tires remain the most sought-after products by motorists. The sector alone accounts for 60% of Internet searches. If the market is so saturated, it is above all because the Internet remains the best place to buy cheaper tires.

By doing your transaction online, you usually pay 20-50% less. This is a very good deal compared to what you can find in physical stores today.

Visit garages and car centers

If you are not very comfortable with the Internet, you can always turn to garages and car centers. This will allow you to get your tires cheaper. Although their prices are more expensive than those on the internet, they still offer great promotions from time to time. So if you keep your eyes open for information, you can find great deals every month.

Opt for retreaded tires

Finally, another option is to invest in retreaded or reconditioned tires. Since they are not new, their price is obviously lower. So you can buy these tires cheaper and fit them to your vehicle. You’ll simply have to make sure that the tires in question are still in good condition and are not likely to put you in danger.

You are planning to change your car? This is a great idea! There is nothing better than having a new car to find the pleasure of driving again. However, to get a better model, you may have to pay more. And to find the necessary funds, you can very well start by selling your old vehicle. By using the right methods, you can quickly find a buyer. To help you, here are some tips and tricks you can use to sell a car.

Selling a car to a garage or trade-in professional

The first option is to sell your used car to a garage or a trade-in professional. Many providers will indeed be willing to take your car if you agree on the price. Here you can choose between two processes:

• 
  Unconditional trade-in
  This procedure is much more advantageous in that your car will be taken back within 24 hours. The price estimates are made online and the company takes the vehicle back once you have reached an agreement. No technical inspection is necessary and you do not have to buy a new car. Moreover, with this process, it is the professional who will take care of the administrative formalities and also the resale of the vehicle.
• 
  Trade-in with car buy-back
  This option allows you to sell your used car to the dealer and then buy your new vehicle from him. There are also many benefits. One example is being able to sell your car more quickly, regardless of the damage to it.

Selling a car to a private individual

This option is also interesting if you don’t want to go through a professional. Depending on your wishes, it is possible to sell your car yourself from private person to private person. Many car owners are doing this today and it is as effective as the option described above, to say the least. However, there are a few things that need to be addressed in order for the resale to be done as quickly as possible.

The first thing to do is to have a technical control of your car. This will allow you to determine the price at which you can sell it. If you want to sell it quickly, first make sure it has no defects. Then use online sales sites to find buyers. And to make your offer interesting, try to put an attractive price and add many pictures so that they can have a clear idea of what you offer.

Are you tired of your old car insurance company and want to find a new one? This can be done very well! Switching from one car insurance policy to another is not done in a vacuum. First of all, you will have to start by terminating the contract with your former insurer. For this, there is a certain specific procedure to follow and in this section, we will show you what you need to do. But first, let’s look at the reasons why you should cancel your car insurance.

Why cancel your car insurance?

There are several reasons to cancel your car insurance. This happens most often when the insurance price charged by the current insurer is too high compared to the competition. If you no longer feel you can afford to pay that rate, then there is no reason not to look elsewhere. However, before doing so, the old contract must first be terminated. Cancellation of a car insurance policy can also occur if another insurer offers offers that perfectly meet your needs and expectations. In this case, we would like to take advantage of it and to do so, we have to get rid of the contract that binds us with the current insurer.

Steps to follow when cancelling a car insurance policy

As mentioned above, there are a few steps to follow to cancel your car insurance. As of 2015, this termination became easier with the entry into force of the Hamon law. In its provisions, this consumer law offers, among other things, the possibility for policyholders to terminate their insurance contract whenever they want. However, this can only be done after one year of subscription and must follow specific procedures:

• To begin with, the insured who wishes to terminate his contract must first find a new insurer. Such a measure has been taken in order to ensure that your car is always well protected and as you already know, third party insurance is the minimum guarantee to be taken out.
• Once the insured has found his new insurer, he must sign a contract directly with him. The insured will then sign a mandate authorizing the new insurer to initiate the termination process on his behalf.
• Once completed, the old contract will expire after one month and the new one will begin to take effect.

Have you just bought your first car? Congratulations! While it will make your life easier with all the things you can do with it, you should not forget that a car also subjects you to some obligations. Car insurance is one of them. Regardless of the type of vehicle you have, you must purchase one. There are many offers in this field and you will have to choose between different formulas. To help you, here are a few tips that may be helpful in choosing your first car insurance.

Choosing your first car insurance when you are a young driver

The calculation of the car insurance premium is based on a number of criteria. Among the most important are the type of vehicle you have and its power. A high-powered car is more likely to be involved in an accident. Of course, the insurance premium will also be high. For a young driver, the first car should ideally be a low-powered car. It would be best to opt for an older model. This way, you won’t have to pay for comprehensive insurance. However, if you have a large budget, there is no reason not to choose this option.

What guarantees should I subscribe to?

When you purchase your first car insurance, you will have a number of coverages to choose from. Some of them are of course mandatory. More precisely, we are talking about third party insurance or compulsory civil liability. This is the minimum coverage to purchase and the insured will simply have to choose it if they have a very limited budget. However, if you want to be compensated in the event of an incident, you can add a few damage coverage options. You can choose between glass breakage, theft, fire and collision coverage. Apart from that, other complementary guarantees are also offered. Examples include legal protection, assistance, driver’s personal guarantee, driver’s bodily injury insurance, driver’s individual traffic guarantee, etc.

Of course, you are not obliged to subscribe to all of its guarantees. For your first car, stick to the essentials. The third party insurance is the most important one. However, you can also choose from damage coverages to enjoy better protection.

Planning to buy a new car in the near future? This is an interesting project! Since there are so many models on the market today, it will be easy for you to find the one that will meet your expectations. However, you need to be well prepared when it comes to the budget. As you already know, prices tend to rise these days. However, with good advice, you can always find a cheaper car. And that is precisely what we will offer you in this section. We will give you tips and tricks to find the right car for your budget.

Going through an agent on the internet

The automotive market is very competitive these days. This is a real advantage for you if you want to get a cheaper car. And if you are not a good connoisseur of the field, the best thing to do is to use an Internet agent. This way, you can purchase your new vehicle at a price that is up to 25% lower. Moreover, you will not have to worry about the quality of the car since, as a specialist, the agent will provide you with a reliable and efficient model. You just have to choose the right provider.

Buy a new car

Investing in a new home often requires you to spend a huge amount of money. That’s why it’s best to go for the second hand. However, since cars in this category are not always reliable, opt for a newer model. With a car that has 10,000 km on the odometer, for example, you can buy it for less and still get good performance. Simply visit the dealerships that sell these types of vehicles and carefully choose the model you need.

Negotiate with the dealer

Another way to buy a car for less is to negotiate directly with the dealer. Of course, this will not apply to all models. Nevertheless, the dealer may be able to do you a favor on the less popular models on the market. This is the case, for example, for cars with automatic transmissions or large models. If they correspond to your tastes and needs, then it will be possible for you to obtain them at a discount of 8 to 10% if you are a good negotiator.

Turn to Chinese cars

Finally, this solution may not interest you as Chinese cars are known to be less reliable and durable. However, there are models that are equivalent to American and European vehicles in terms of comfort and power. They are usually cheaper than the latter and this will allow you to get your vehicle at a low price.

It seems that the French are not really interested in new cars anymore. In fact, if the latest sales figures are to be believed, used vehicles are the most attractive to motorists. While this choice is somewhat surprising, there are many reasons for it. In order to learn more about it, we will detail it in the following paragraphs.

Used car market up 3.7% in the first quarter

The numbers are pretty self-explanatory when it comes to the evolution of the used car market during the first quarter of this year 2017. Indeed, the used car market has increased by 3.7%. Even more surprisingly, the oldest cars are the most sold, with one third of the models sold being more than 10 years old. The reasons for this choice are primarily explained by the still affordable prices of these types of vehicles. But the quality is also part of the game. This is why models with 80,000 to 100,000 kilometers on them are the most popular. Their engines are still considered reliable and efficient.

Based on brand and model, the Renault Megane and Clio as well as the Peugeot 206 remain the most sought after cars. However, foreign brands such as Hyundai, Dacia and Kia are also beginning to make their mark on the French car market. All three have seen double-digit growth.

Diesel still preferred

As new vehicles struggle in the market, diesel continues to persevere in its rise. Of course, vehicles with this type of engine are no longer very popular on the new car market. However, they literally dominate sales on the used side. According to the figures available on this subject, diesel remains the preferred fuel of French motorists, with two out of three sales.

In short, if the market is currently dominated by the second-hand market, this should still be the case for the remaining months to come. If the new car market is to grow and take a larger share of the market, it will have to start by adjusting prices and making them more affordable so that new cars can be accessible to as many people as possible.

Summer is coming soon and as you already know, it’s time to prepare your car. Indeed, you will now have to put away your winter tires and start by mounting the summer tires. This will allow you to ride more safely and enjoy better performance. All you have to do is find the right tires for your vehicle. And for this, you must of course rely on several objective criteria that we will detail in the following paragraphs. But first, let’s take a moment to explain the specifics of summer tires.

All you need to know about summer tires

As the name clearly implies, a summer tire is primarily a tire intended for use during the warm seasons. However, this is just a name, this tire is much more than that. It is a tire that can be used all year round (performance guaranteed from 7°C). It certainly does not offer better performance than the winter tire in the cold season. Nevertheless, it can be used to save money, but be very careful.

Another interesting thing to know about summer tires is that they are the original tires that are mounted on new vehicles. Moreover, these are also the most popular tires on the market. They come in a wide variety of models and it is easy to find the right one for your car.

How to choose your summer tires?

As mentioned in the introduction, the choice of a summer tire is based on a few objective criteria, which are as follows

• 
  Dimensions
  This is the most important criterion to take into account. You should always choose summer tires that are well adapted to your vehicle. So, first of all, find models that are the same size and characteristics as your old tires. All you need to do is look at the markings on the tires. Normally, you will find information about the width, height, rim diameter, load capacity andspeed rating.
• 
  The type of vehicle
  In addition to the dimensions, the summer tires you buy must also correspond to the type of car you have. If you own a passenger car, find tires that are specifically designed for this particular type of vehicle. The same applies to 4×4 cars, motor homes, vans, etc.
• 
  The brand
  Finally, this is not strictly speaking an objective criterion. You can freely choose the brand of tires you want. However, some manufacturers offer quality products that perform better than others. The best thing to do would be to make comparisons and get information from users’ opinions before choosing your tires.

You want to go on a family trip for the next summer vacations? This is a great idea! Indeed, there is no better way to strengthen family ties than to see other horizons together. Moreover, it will also be an opportunity to get away from it all, to relax and enjoy the beautiful days. The best would be to travel in a family vehicle, and why not a camper ? In addition to being spacious and comfortable, this type of vehicle is also well equipped and therefore economical. You simply have to choose it well and in this section we will show you how.

Capucine, profile or integral ?

Before making your choice, you should first know that there are three main models of motorhomes:

• 
  The Capucines
  This is the most suitable model for families. It has more or less the same characteristics as all other motorhomes. However, it is distinguished by the presence of a high sleeping area. This is located above the driver’s cab. This is what makes it more practical and also more comfortable.
• 
  The profiles
  If there are only two of you on a trip, this model will be perfect for you. Unlike the model described above, it has a lower height. Nevertheless, this contributes to its better aerodynamic performance. With the profiles, the sleeping area remains at the rear of the vehicle and the cockpit is topped with a cap.
• 
  The integral
  This model is suitable for both families and couples. As its name suggests, it is perfectly equipped. Luxurious and spacious, the integral is also the most expensive of the three.

When buying your motorhome, you can base your decision on these criteria. Choose the model that best suits your needs and budget.

Choose your motorhome according to your needs

The choice of a motor home must first of all go through the consideration of its needs. Indeed, although the models proposed by the manufacturers are very numerous, it is always necessary to choose the one adapted to its needs. To do this, you must rely on a number of criteria.

Start by asking yourself how you will use your motorhome. If, as mentioned above, you are going to use it for a family trip, ask yourself if you want to use it all year round or just for the vacation season. In the latter case, there is no real need to invest in the purchase of a motorhome. Instead, you can limit yourself to renting. It will be more economical and also more advantageous in terms of comfort and safety.

However, if you are really decided to buy one, you must necessarily consider some essential criteria such as comfort, size, autonomy, motorization and many others. Also, don’t forget to consider parking and make your choice based on where you are likely to go.

Electric cars have really caught on in recent years. They are now in the limelight and attract more and more drivers.

As a reminder, electric vehicles are what most governments are promoting today, thanks in part to their ecological and environmentally friendly nature. Aware of this, car manufacturers are investing more and more in the manufacture of electric and hybrid models and making them more and more accessible.

In the particular case of France, the number of motorists who prefer to turn to electric cars is constantly increasing. Currently, the country has more than 100,000 such vehicles registered throughout its territory. This figure has enabled it to overtake Norway and become the leader in zero emission cars in Europe.

Let’s analyze all this in more detail and find out why and how France is where it is today.

A 24% increase in the first quarter of 2017

Norway used to be the leading European country with the highest number of registrations in the electric car segment. A situation that is quite normal judging by the measures taken by the government and investors to encourage its establishment (more favorable tax arrangements, important recharging infrastructure, etc.).

However, France also has its own assets and they are not at all negligible. Of course, we don’t have the same infrastructure as the Norwegians. Nevertheless, the offer is increasingly rich in France and electric cars are becoming more accessible. Some regions are particularly interested in this new technology (Île de France and Auvergne Rhône Alpes) and motorists are well motivated to acquire it. Facts that have enabled France to record a 24% increase in vehicle registrations in this segment in the first quarter of this year 2017.

350,000 electric cars by 2020

With the current progression of sales and registrations of electric cars in France, we should reach 350,000 units of this type of vehicle by 2020. This is the forecast made by AVERE (National Association for the Development of Electric Mobility). Although it is not yet clear that this will be the case, we can nevertheless remain optimistic about the subject. Moreover, a recent IPSOS survey revealed that 35% of French motorists would be ready to switch to electric cars.

A few days ago, a rumor spread that Volkswagen was preparing a performance package for its Golf R. Today, this is confirmed with the presentation of this new model at the Geneva Motor Show. Of course, this new Golf R Performance will be more than welcome by fans of this powerful and stylish vehicle. But first, let’s discover what it has in the belly and also what differentiates it from its predecessors.

No noticeable change in design

Volkswagen has used a video to show us the features of the Golf R’s performance package. In this video, we can clearly see the look and the specificities of the newcomer. And what we can say at first glance is that there is not much new in terms of appearance and design. Indeed, we find almost the same lines as those of the classic Golf R.

The same is true for the car’s interior. The atmosphere is still quite cool and the materials used are of high quality and meet modern safety and comfort requirements. In short, as far as appearance is concerned, Volkswagen decided to keep the same overall style as the other models attached to the Golf R. This is not really surprising since all these models belong to the same category.

A performance surplus

The new Golf R Performance is called that for a reason. Indeed, if no apparent novelty was noticed at the level of the design, it is not the case for the other aspects of the vehicle. Thus, for the Golf R Performance, Volkswagen benefits above all from improved aerodynamics. Improvements have also been made to the suspension (firmer), brake discs (larger), exhaust (Akrapovic titanium), etc. Apart from that, the maximum speed has now been reduced to 265 km/h, but no longer limited to 250 km/h. However, no novelty seems to have been brought concerning the motorization. The Golf R Performance keeps the same 2.0 turbo four-cylinder engine developing 310 hp.

At the moment, there is not enough information about the launch date or the price of this new pack. However, its price should not be very far from the classic Golf R which was announced at 42 790 €.

Like all human beings, the life of our vehicles is also limited. Indeed, they cannot live forever. We can’t keep them forever to pass them on to our children and grandchildren. The only thing we can do is to make sure that we extend their lives by taking good care of them. For this, there are some good gestures and certain practices to adopt. We tell you all about it.

Budget for maintenance and repairs

The life of a car depends primarily on the model you have. If at the time of purchase, you have opted for a very resistant model. You will certainly have a great chance to keep your vehicle well and extend its life. However, as this is not necessarily the case for everyone, maintenance remains the best way to keep your car in good condition.

So, for each of your vehicles, consider budgeting for maintenance and repair. And take the time to drive them to the garage from time to time so that they can be properly examined. So whenever a malfunction occurs, don’t waste your time. Get your car repaired as soon as possible. If you wait any longer, the problem could get worse.

Getting to know your car

Frequent breakdowns are among the causes of car destruction. In order to extend its life, it is thus advisable to avoid them as much as possible. To do so, you must have a perfect knowledge of your device. Learn about its performance and ask a specialist about everything you need to do every time you drive your car. This is essential to keep it in good condition and therefore extend its life.

Drive at the engine’s pace

Sometimes, good driving habits are enough to keep your car safe. If you are an extreme sports enthusiast, then the best choice would be a sporty and powerful car. Otherwise, you should drive at the engine’s pace and not force it to do too much. This will only weaken it further and therefore lead to its deterioration. The best thing to do is to accelerate gently and let the engine warm up.

In the same vein, it is also important to avoid stopping the engine too quickly. In order for it to reach the ideal operating temperature, it is important that it runs for some time. Otherwise, the exhaust line can quickly wear out and so can the engine. This is why it is not advisable to use your car for a very short trip.

Taking good care of your tires

Finally, tires also play an essential role in preserving the life of a car. Their condition can have an impact on the proper functioning of your vehicle. So take the time to always check them and replace them when they show signs of wear. The best thing would be to change the tires every time the car has done 5000 km. And when it comes time to change them, choose models that are well suited to both the vehicle and the driving conditions.

To obtain a driver’s license, you must first be patient. Indeed, it can only be delivered within 6 months to a year. A time frame that is of course too long for many of us, but that we are still obliged to respect. However, you should know that it is possible to reduce this delay and obtain your driver’s license quickly. Here are a few tips that may be helpful in doing so.

Choosing your driving school

This is the first thing you need to do to get your driver’s license quickly. The time frame and success are not necessarily the same in all driving schools. So, before making your choice, take the time to compare the offers proposed by the institutions. Of course, the price is a criterion not to be neglected in your comparison. However, focus on the success rate and the ability of the instructors. This way, you will know which driving school is best for you.

Start your classes at the right time

Now that you’ve found the right driving school to take your test, you’ll need to consider when you’ll start classes. In principle, there is really no good time to get started. But when the opportunity presents itself, don’t give up. Although courses are usually expensive, don’t use this as an excuse not to get your driver’s license. Nowadays, this document is very important in all types of professions.

Opt for a crash course

To get your driver’s license in a shorter period of time, opt for accelerated driving courses. Indeed, many driving schools offer this option nowadays. In practice, the student will have to pass intensive code and driving courses. They will then be able to take exams faster than those who follow the normal course. Generally, it takes about 3 weeks to complete all the steps to obtain the permit. However, the price is also somewhat high.

Get your license in another region or country

It is also an interesting option and an easier way to get your driver’s license quickly. If you have the possibility to go to another region or country where the driving test is easier, it would be best to organize a short stay and take the test there. In some places, the waiting period is shorter and the formalities for obtaining a permit are lighter. You can take the exams there and once you have obtained your driver’s license, you only need to exchange it for a French license.